Tag: Foreign Office

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 April 2025.

Lord Collins of Highbury visited Uganda on 3 and 4 April to reinforce the UK’s commitment to sustainable development and mutual economic growth.

During his 2-day visit, Lord Collins announced the launch of a new UK-Uganda Growth Dialogue between the UK and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

The UK-Uganda Growth Dialogue will be a quarterly series of discussions on commercial deals, business environment and economic policy to identify opportunities to increase trade and investment between the 2 nations. It will unblock barriers to trade and create new opportunities for collaboration.

Lord Collins visited areas of UK investments such as Zembo, a leading e-mobility company in Uganda, which has received financing from UK Innovate and Private Infrastructure Development Group.

Uganda’s green transition

Funding has accelerated the adoption of electric motorcycles and other zero-emission vehicles, reducing carbon emissions and saving the average boda driver US$500 annually on traditional fuel and maintenance costs. The investment supports Uganda’s transition to greener mobility while creating new job opportunities.

Lord Collins of Highbury stated:

My visit to Uganda reaffirms the UK’s unwavering commitment to building equal partnerships that supporting sustainable development and drive mutually beneficial economic growth in the region. We are dedicated to working closely with our Ugandan partners to achieve shared prosperity and a brighter future for all.

Celebrating direct flights between UK and Uganda

Lord Collins and Uganda Airlines jointly hosted a reception to celebrate the new Uganda Airlines direct flight to the UK – the first in 10 years. The direct flights are expected to enhance trade, tourism, and people-to-people links between the UK and Uganda, further strengthening the 2 countries’ historic relationship.

Lord Collins remarked:

The introduction of direct flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to deepen ties and foster mutual growth. We are excited about the opportunities this new connection will bring.

Supporting Uganda’s research and innovation

During his visit to Uganda, Lord Collins of Highbury visited the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), which boasts over £25 million in active funding from UK Universities and Medical Research Council and hosts many British medical researchers for and a 35-year partnership with the UK.

UVRI has pioneered breakthroughs, including significant advancements in HIV/AIDS treatment and Ebola research, enhanced disease surveillance and provided expert advice on controlling viral infections.

UVRI partners with the Ministry of Health, the UK’s Medical Research Council (MRC), the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and other international and local experts to advance its mission

Background

UVRI (Uganda Virus Research Institute)

UVRI is a leading research institute in Uganda, focusing on viral diseases and public health, collaborating with UK Universities and international partners.

PIDG (Private Infrastructure Development Group)

PIDG mobilises finance for infrastructure projects in Africa and Asia, promoting sustainable development through public-private partnerships.

Innovate UK

Innovate UK supports business-led innovation across sectors with financial support, expert advice and access to resources.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 April 2025.

A statement on behalf of E3 members, the UK, France and Germany, following today’s meeting with the US and Ukraine in London.

An FCDO spokesperson said:

Representatives of the UK, France, Germany and the US met today in London with a Ukrainian delegation led by Head of Office of the President of Ukraine Yermak, Foreign Minister Sybiha, and Defence Minister Umerov, for another round of intensive talks following up on the meeting in Paris last week.

All parties reiterated their strong support for President Trump’s commitment to stopping the killing and achieving a just and lasting peace.

The talks today were productive and successful, and significant progress was made on reaching a common position on next steps. All agreed to continue their close coordination and looked forward to further talks soon.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 23 April 2025.

Joint statement on behalf of the Foreign Ministers of France, Germany and the UK on more than 50 days of Israel’s block on aid to Gaza.

Israel has now fully blocked the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza for over fifty days. Essential supplies are either no longer available or quickly running out. Palestinian civilians – including one million children – face an acute risk of starvation, epidemic disease and death. This must end. We urge Israel to immediately re-start a rapid and unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza in order to meet the needs of all civilians. During the last ceasefire, the UN and INGO system was able to deliver aid at scale. The Israeli decision to block aid from entering Gaza is intolerable. Minister Katz’s recent comments politicising humanitarian aid and Israeli plans to remain in Gaza after the war are unacceptable – they harm prospects for peace. Humanitarian aid must never be used as a political tool and Palestinian territory must not be reduced nor subjected to any demographic change. Israel is bound under international law to allow the unhindered passage of humanitarian aid.

Humanitarians must be able to deliver aid to those who need it most, independent of parties to the conflict and in accordance with their humanitarian principles. Israel must ensure unhindered access for the UN and humanitarian organisations to operate safely across Gaza. Hamas must not divert aid for their own financial gain or use civilian infrastructure for military purposes.

We reiterate our outrage at recent strikes by Israeli forces on humanitarian personnel, infrastructure, premises and healthcare facilities. Israel must do much more to protect the civilian population, infrastructure and humanitarian workers. This includes restoring deconfliction systems, allowing humanitarian workers free movement within Gaza. And Israel must prevent harm to medical personnel and premises in the course of their military operations. They must allow the urgent healthcare needs of the population to be met, while allowing the sick and wounded to temporarily leave the Gaza Strip to receive treatment.

Crucially, we urge all parties to return to a ceasefire. We continue to call on Hamas for the immediate release of all the remaining hostages, who are enduring terrible suffering. We must all work towards the implementation of a two-state solution, which is the only way to bring long-lasting peace and security to both Israelis and Palestinians and ensure long-term stability in the region.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 April 2025.

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Colombia.

The UK is clear that full implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement is essential for lasting peace in Colombia. Last year, following President Petro’s intervention in the Council in July, we welcomed the government’s announcement of a Rapid Response Plan, which committed to accelerate implementation and deliver real change in the territories most affected by the conflict.

Communities in these areas expect the government to deliver on their urgent needs. We welcome Foreign Minister Sarabia’s commitment to accelerate the delivery of the agreement. This will require a whole of government effort with close coordination with regional and local authorities and of course, Colombia’s security forces, so that the impact is felt by those communities.

We remain concerned by the security situation in those territories, particularly for women, children and indigenous groups. The violence in Catatumbo is a clear example. We call on the government to strengthen protection measures and safeguard communities. We welcome the launch of the Pact for Catatumbo, and we urge the government to prioritise the security of all vulnerable Colombians through mechanisms already established.

This includes convening the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion, and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement (CSIVI) and delivery of the Women, Peace and Security National Action Plan published last year. With 23 peace signatories killed this year alone, and hundreds displaced, the safety, security and reintegration of all signatories to the agreement remains paramount.

President, justice for victims remains at the heart of the 2016 Agreement, with its carefully designed system of complementary institutions focused on truth, justice and reconciliation. We call on the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (SJP) to accelerate its work to ensure the confidence of victims and signatories.

To assuage growing doubts about the SJP and its efficacy, now is the time to move forward to the issuing of sanctions and to hold to account those responsible for the most serious human rights violations. The government has an essential role to play in coordinating with the SJP on the implementation of reparative measures.

Beyond the 2016 Agreement, we recognise the Colombian Government’s efforts to extend the dialogue to other armed groups. Unfortunately, as the Secretary-General’s report notes, these dialogues have not delivered the desired results.

The UK, and this Council, have consistently called upon those groups to demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace, above all by respecting the rights of the communities whose interests they claim to pursue.

Those communities continue, however, to be affected by serious violence, gross human rights abuses, and coercive and predatory behaviour at the hands of armed groups. If there is to be any hope of sustainable progress through dialogue, the groups involved need to show that they are serious about a political process.

President, to conclude, the United Kingdom remains steadfast in our support for sustainable peace in Colombia.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 April 2025.

The British High Commissioner, Mr Charles Moore, bid a final farewell to Namibia in April after four years and three months in the country.

On 9 April 2025, outgoing British High Commissioner to Namibia, Mr. Charles Moore, paid a farewell courtesy call on President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House in Windhoek.

His diplomatic term has ended after an eventful four years and three months. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed appreciation for Mr. Moore’s service, acknowledging that the recorded increase in trade between the two countries will go a long way in reducing the unemployment rate in Namibia.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah also noted that she is looking forward to welcoming Mr. Moore’s successor, Mr. Neil Bradley, when his tenure begins. She remains hopeful for a continued positive trajectory in the bilateral relationship between Namibia and the United Kingdom.

On his end, H.E. Charles Moore stated that working in Namibia has been a privilege and a career highlight. He affirmed that even though his tour of duty has come to an end, he will continue to take a close interest in Namibia’s development and is excitedly looking forward to returning as a tourist in the future.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 April 2025.

Mr Chris Rampling has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands in succession to Ms Joanna Roper CMG. Mr Rampling will take up his appointment during July 2025.

Curriculum vitae

Full name: Christopher Maxwell Rampling

Date	Role
2023 to 2024	FCDO, Director-General (acting) Defence & Intelligence
2020 to 2024	FCDO, National Security Director
2018 to 2020	Beirut, Her Majesty’s Ambassador
2014 to 2018	Brussels, UK Permanent Representation to the EU, Foreign Policy, Defence and Development Counsellor
2013 to 2014	FCO, Head Corporate Services Programme
2013	Secondment to The Prince’s Trust
2009 to 2013	Amman, Deputy Head of Mission
2007 to 2009	FCO, Deputy Head, Counter Proliferation Department
2005 to 2007	FCO, Team Leader, Turkey Team
2003	Jerusalem, Political and Press Officer
2002 to 2005	Tripoli, Political and Press Officer
2000 to 2002	Pre-posting training (including Arabic language training, Cairo)
1999 to 2000	FCO, Desk officer, Turkey/Malta
1999	Joined FCO
1996 to 1999	Private sector (Insurance)

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 22 April 2025.

UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Catherine West MP visits Cambodia to advance shared interests and boost cooperation.

The UK and Cambodia are collaborating to advance climate initiatives and promote sustainable development.

This includes at Techo International Airport in Kandal Province, Cambodia, where British architecture has gained international recognition for its innovative approach to green airport design.

The airport, designed by British firm Foster + Partners, will be visited today (22 April 2025) by UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West MP, who is in Cambodia this week to strengthen ties between the two nations and promote economic growth, climate resilience, and security cooperation.

The Minister will meet with H.E. Prak Sokhonn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and senior officials from Cambodia’s Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Council for the Development of Cambodia. Their discussions will cover expanding trade opportunities, advancing climate initiatives, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing regional security.

UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Catherine West MP, said:

My visit to Techo International Airport today is testament to the modern UK-Cambodia partnership. Innovative and green infrastructure fit for Cambodia’s future, designed by British business – an achievement that would have been unimaginable thirty years ago.

Our relationship goes far beyond just this one building – but we bring the same partnership approach to everything we do, whether increasing trade to create jobs, protect our climate and nature, or increase access to education.

Foster and Partners Associate Partner, Krzysztof Szymanski, said:

We are incredibly proud and deeply honoured to lead the design of Techo International Airport, a project that aspires to be one of the greenest airports in the world. This airport offers a transformative vision for Phnom Penh, drawing deeply from Cambodia’s rich heritage and responding thoughtfully to its tropical climate. By integrating the latest technology with local craftsmanship, we are committed to creating sustainable and efficient infrastructure.

This project not only creates a new gateway to the city and the country, enhancing Cambodia’s reputation on the global stage, but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable airport design. It is a privilege to contribute to such a significant endeavour that will shape the future of Cambodia’s capital.

Minister West is going to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Economy and Finance on Strategic Infrastructure Development, demonstrating our commitment to partner to boost mutual economic growth, including support for the development of a Green Special Economic Zone.  Initiatives such as the Trade Partnerships programme and the Developing Countries Trading Scheme are also key to deepening ties and growth opportunities.

The Minister will meet the British Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia to discuss how UK businesses are taking advantage of these policies to expand cooperation with Cambodian partners in key sectors including education, infrastructure, and financial services.

Minister West will visit De Montfort University in Cambodia, the first UK university campus in the country, to discuss the UK’s role in addressing global environmental challenges, and highlighting how UK programmes, such as the Biodiverse Landscape Fund, are empowering local communities, including marginalised groups, to regenerate and conserve local environments and improve livelihoods.

The visit also addresses shared security concerns, including combating serious organised crime and human trafficking, addressing online fraud and scam centres, and future defence cooperation initiatives.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 21 April 2025.

Statement by Fergus Eckersley, UK Minister Counsellor, at the UN Security Council meeting on Haiti.

The UK is extremely concerned by the significant escalation of violence in Haiti.

Over 2,600 Haitians have been murdered over the past three months, including nearly 400 women and children.

We continue to hear horrifying accounts of sexual and gender-based violence targeting women, girls and boys.

One third of cases of sexual violence against children in Haiti in 2024 were gang rapes.

Through coordinated attacks on civilian communities, including the deliberate destruction of schools, churches and businesses, gangs continue to target the innocent and inflict horror on the people of Haiti.

Mr President, there are troubling reports of coordination between criminal gangs in order to destabilise Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council as they try to ensure security across the country.

We firmly reject all acts designed to destabilise Haiti.

The UK is committed to maintaining pressure via the implementation of sanctions on those who seek to destabilise Haiti, and we call for the full implementation of the UN sanctions regime and the arms embargo in Haiti.

The UK supports the efforts of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé and all stakeholders to work towards a secure and stable Haiti.

But now is the time for even greater action to restore security and to allow for elections to enable a transfer of power to an elected successor in February 2026.

This includes an urgent need for the Haitian National Police, supported by the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, to re-establish control over all areas of Port-au-Prince.

The UK thanks Kenya for its continued leadership of the MSS mission and pays tribute to those, both Kenyan and Haitian, who have lost their lives in the pursuit of restoring security for the Haitian people.

In light of the deteriorating security situation, it is clear that the MSS mission and the Haitian security forces need to be adequately supported to fulfil their mission.

This Council needs urgently to consider the recommendations of the Secretary General and agree how we can support the enhanced UN security support to Haiti.

Collectively, we must find a way to deliver stability and lasting peace for the people of Haiti.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 April 2025.

Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.

President I would like to make three points.

First, Libya’s economic trajectory is alarming.

With no unified budget and, as SRSG Tetteh said, no oversight, present levels of public spending by Libyan authorities risk rapidly diminishing the nation’s wealth.

Competition for state resources is putting Libya’s institutions under grave pressure, and risks fuelling renewed conflict.

Libya has the resources to build a prosperous future. But to achieve it, Libya’s leaders must put aside narrow interests and agree on a unified economic framework in the national interest.

We welcome the return of the World Bank to Tripoli to support this work.

Second, the UK is deeply concerned by the destabilising activities of Libyan security actors and armed groups.

This includes reports of unlawful and arbitrary detentions, kidnappings, imprisonment without due process and assassination attempts.

There needs to be accountability for such acts, to support civic space and trust in Libya’s law enforcement.

The recent closure of humanitarian organisations’ offices and detention of their employees is particularly troubling.

We urge Libyan authorities to work with international NGOs and resolve differences through dialogue.

Humanitarian organisations are an indispensable part of our collective efforts to support Libya, including to help address the Libyan authority’s concerns about illegal migration.

Third, Libya’s economic and security challenges underscore the urgent need for progress on the political track.

Libya needs a comprehensive, inclusive political process which will provide the foundation for sound economic governance, rule of law and accountability, and help tackle corruption.

The UK strongly supports UNSMIL’s efforts and commends SRSG Tetteh for her leadership.

A revitalised political process, flowing from the Advisory Committee’s deliberations, presents a real opportunity to chart a path towards the peace, stability and prosperity that the Libyan people deserve and yearn for, as I heard during my own visit to Libya and in more recent exchanges with young Libyans.

So we urge all Libyan actors to engage constructively with the UN’s efforts and the Advisory Committee’s recommendations.

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 April 2025.

Mr Christian Rogg has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Ghana in succession to Ms Harriet Thompson who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mr Rogg will take up his appointment during July 2025.

Curriculum vitae

Full name: Christian Stefan Rogg

Year	Role
2023 to present	FCDO, Director for Development and Open Societies
2021 to 2023	FCDO, Director for Development, Parliament, Coordination and Capability
2017 to 2021	Addis Ababa, Development Director
2015 to 2017	Kinshasa, Head of DFID
2012 to 2015	Abuja, Acting/Deputy Head of DFID
2009 to 2012	Hanoi, Acting/Deputy Head of DFID
2006 to 2009	Accra, Head of Governance and Growth Team, DFID
2003 to 2006	DFID, Head of Growth Team, Policy Division
2000 to 2003	DFID, Economic Adviser/Acting Team Leader, Private Sector Policy Department
2001	University of Oxford, Instructor, Department of Economics
1999 to 2000	DFID, Assistant Adviser, Business Partnerships Department
1999	University of Oxford, Researcher, Development Studies Centre
1998	Inter-American Development Bank, Washington, Assistant, Private Sector Department
1995 to 1997	PricewaterhouseCoopers, Washington, Consultant, Economics and Finance Division
1995	Senator Joe Lieberman’s Office, United States Senate, Legislative Intern
1994	SmithKline Beecham, Assistant to Director for Business Planning and Analysis
1993	Merrill Lynch, Frankfurt, Assistant to Financial Consultants
1990 to 1992	DG Bank, Frankfurt, Trainee